Online tax extension portal gains rapid popularity

A newly introduced online portal for extending income tax return deadlines is gaining traction among taxpayers, offering a faster and more transparent alternative to traditional, office-based processes.
As the March 31 deadline approaches, thousands are opting for the digital route to avoid last-minute complications.
The system, launched by the National Board of Revenue (NBR), allows taxpayers to apply for extensions without visiting tax offices, marking a shift towards streamlined and user-friendly tax administration.
A statement from the National Board of Revenue (NBR) said more than 5,000 taxpayers have applied online for time extensions in the past few days through the e-Return system, with most applications being approved within a short time.
For the 2025-26 tax year, the NBR has made online filing of income tax returns mandatory for all individual taxpayers, with a few exceptions.
Data from the revenue authority show that over 5.0 million taxpayers have registered in the e-Return system, and more than 4.15 million have already submitted their returns online.
The deadline for filing individual tax returns has been extended to March 31, 2026.
However, taxpayers may apply, either online or in writing, before the deadline to receive up to an additional 90 days from their respective tax commissioner.
To make the extension process easier, faster and more transparent, the NBR has introduced a fully online system. Taxpayers can log into the e-Return portal and apply through the "Time Extension" option.
Once approved, they can submit their returns within the extended period without any penalty or additional tax.
The NBR said taxpayers who have not yet filed their returns but wish to avoid penalties must apply for an extension by March 31. Those not yet registered must first complete registration in the e-Return system using a biometric SIM registered in their own name.
Taxpayers who are not required to file returns online may apply for an extension either through the online system or by submitting a written application to their respective tax circles.
The NBR has urged all individual taxpayers to file their returns by March 31 to avoid penalties. Those unable to meet the deadline are advised to apply for an extension within the stipulated date, citing valid reasons.

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